The Navajo code talkers invented the only unbreakable code in military history. They used their native Navajo language to transmit messages during WWII, allowing the US to communicate securely in a way that was never deciphered. The code was based on Navajo words for common military terms and grew to over 600 terms by the end of the war. It allowed messages to be sent 20 times faster than other codes at the time. Though only 29 Navajos originally volunteered, the code talkers played a pivotal role in the Pacific theater and helped hasten the end of the war. Their unbreakable code is credited with saving countless lives.
19. The code talkers were never required to fight in battles because they were so important that the government did not want to risk their deaths.
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21. Before: First platoon of Navajo code talkers graduate from Maine. Left: Navajos run to establish communications. Next Slide: Training required long hours in the classroom as well as basic marine training.
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23. Importance and Impact When you ask Keith Little one of the four remaining code talkers why he joined the way he says “Because the Japanese made a sneak attack on the US, to protect our people, land and country.” But in truth the code talkers were essential to the war and their unbreakable code played a pivotal role in saving countless lives and hastening the war's end. Being the only code never broken it gave the US a substantial leg up in the war in the Pacific. It is said that the Navajos were some of the bravest marines in WWII.